05 August 2008

Let's make a commitment!

Good Morning Sweet Bird,

After our wonderful talks last night of daily writing and visual art goals, multiple outlets for creative energy, and the need to create uncensored work / work without an audience, I thought it was time to share the art of Jen Renninger. Jen is one of those artist extraordinars who has decided to create and finish one image / piece of work every day this year.

There is an incredible narrative quality to her work, like dark stories bubbling to the surface, or dreams that have only been partially imagined. I am particularly drawn to her anatomical work (I know, not surprising).Above, "Everyday Image 1.18.08" and below, "Everyday Image 1.4.08"

Prints of Jen's work are available through her etsy shop, Please Be Still, or if you just want to read and be inspired, check out her blog, 365.

For the past year, I've been kicking around the idea of a making a commitment to finish one piece of art, every day, for thirty days. It's not that I don't create every day of the week (in fact, I get a little crazy if I do not) but my larger paintings just seem to take such a long time to complete (and not without good reason - the lessons I learn from them are invaluable). However, I think really embracing the idea of completion would force me to become decisive and sure. What do you think? Interested in jumping into this with me? I know of a particular red bird journal that is calling your name...

1 comment:

Consequently, our talk last night motivated me quite the bit. I read my Sylvia Plath journals, wrote two full pages in my journal (8x11 journal - i think i have made some peace with it!) and read more in my fiction book. I felt quite productive.

So I will (re) commit to journaling - my private, no audience (well, maybe posthumously), for 30 days (set a beginning and end date please) and see what comes of it.

I clicked over on her blog, (http://jenrenninger365.blogspot.com/)and the posting of the day was about her new credo - some very usefull and helpful information:my favorite points:

1) "Love your experiments (as you would an ugly child).Joy is the engine of growth. Exploit the liberty in casting your work as beautiful experiments, iterations, attempts, trials, and errors. Take the long view and allow yourself the fun of failure every day."

2)"Study.A studio is a place of study. Use the necessity of production as an excuse to study. Everyone will benefit."